That tiny drip under your car might seem insignificant, but minor leaks often escalate into major repairs. Here’s what every driver should know about automotive fluid leaks:

Leak Identification Guide

By Color & Consistency:

Fluid Color Texture Smell Severity
Engine Oil Amber to black Slippery Burnt Medium
Transmission Red/brown Thin, oily Sweet High
Coolant Green/pink/blue Sticky Sweet Critical
Brake Fluid Clear to brown Watery Fishy Emergency
Power Steering Red/clear Oily Chemical High

Quick Test: Place white cardboard under leak overnight for clearer identification.

Why “Just Topping Off” Is Dangerous

Engine Oil Example:

  • *Small leak (1 qt/month):*

    • Seems harmless (“I just add oil”)

    • Hidden damage:

      • Oil starvation at hard turns

      • Catalytic converter clogging from burned oil

Coolant Leak Consequences:

  • £20 seal failure → £1,200 head gasket repair

  • Overheating warps engine components

Our Leak Repair Process

  1. UV Dye Testing

    • Non-toxic dye added to system

    • Blacklight reveals exact leak source

  2. Pressure Testing

    • Checks:

      • Radiator caps

      • Hoses

      • Seals

  3. Repair Options

    • Budget: Stop-leak additives (£15-£50)

    • Permanent: Seal/gasket replacement (£90-£400)

“We’ve found 73% of leaks are fixable for under £200 if caught early.”

Cost Comparison: Early vs. Late Repair

Issue Early Fix Cost Neglected Repair Cost
Valve Cover Gasket £80-£120 £600+ (when oil ruins spark plugs)
Power Steering Hose £90-£150 £1,800 (rack replacement)
Rear Main Seal £250-£400 £3,500+ (engine rebuild)

Prevention Tips

  • Monthly visual checks (park over clean surface)
    Address wetness before stains appear
    Use OEM-quality replacement parts

Did You Know?
Coolant leaks often start at the water pump weep hole—a designed warning system most drivers miss.

When to Panic:
Stop driving immediately for:

  • Brake fluid puddles
    Bright green coolant sprays
    Oil dripping onto hot exhaust